Don't box in Christmas

Twas a night in November, when all through our house

We both were laying traps, trying to catch a mouse

Tree decorations were bought, but sat in the dark

Kyle didn't think it was time; he's a Christmas narc

In Edmonton, Christmas is a big deal. Not everyone celebrates Christmas, but virtually everyone has an opinion of how Christmas should be celebrated. When does it start? What is its meaning? Is Christmas but one season? Kyle and I have differing views on Christmas. I believe that the Christmas season begins after Remembrance Day ends; Rememebrance deserves undivided focus and respect. The key to knowing when to celebrate is knowing why you celebrate. Christmas is a time of love. In more recent history, the holiday has changed to become non-denominational. The purpose of this blog is not to argue the Christianity of Christmas rather, it is to show that Christmas should not be restricted in any way, by any one.

As was aforementioned, visible Christmas celebrations must conform to a respectful timeline, but these restrictions do not need to be as strict as many think. In no way am I advocating that everyone should begin celebrating Christmas on November 12th, but that one should be free to celebrate without incurring the judgement of others. Christmas gift shopping has no restrictions; any time you can get a good sale on a gift, go for it. What I'm referring to is Christmas decorations, listening to Christmas carols and other visible means of celebration. The Christmas holiday brings on so many wonderful feelings. Among other things, Christmas reminds us of the importance of family, charity, compassion; it reminds us of love. Who wants to stifle those feelings? We should have the freedom to choose when and how we wish to celebrate this holiday. We choose when to have Christmas. "It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air" (ELLIS) and no one's heart should be too small to block love from coming in (not even the Grinch's). This brings it back to why we celebrate.

In order for us to be able to experience Christmas to the fullest, we must embrace its purpose. Christmas is centered on love. Traditionally, it celebrates the birth of Christ - who's life's purpose hinged on love. Christmas is universal; it is no respecter of persons. It can be shared with everyone, no matter their background. If one chooses not to celebrate the christian Christmas, they may still participate in its residual effects: charity, baking, sales... Christmas is a blessed season "which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love." (MABIE) If the focus of our Christmas becomes the gifts and the technicalities, we will miss out on full participation; we will forget about opening our hearts. One of the messages of Christmas that many people miss is that materialism prevents us from full participation in life.

Many lessons we learn at Christmas can be applied to other holidays. Why must we feel that Christmas comes but once a year? Does it begin and end in the last month of the year? Or is it the holiday that prepares us for the following year? Valentine's Day teaches us to think about our significant other. It makes us ask what we can do for them. Mother's Day and Father's Day make children reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of their parents. Veterans put their lives on the line for our lives, which are full of comfort and freedom. Christmas has no timeline, yet others continue to force one upon it.

Christmas is year long. Celebrate it how you will. Put on your fuzzy red pajamas, play your carols and start your baking. Unshackle your heart and spread the love like fairy dust. Don't get too caught up in the technicalities; this is your Christmas. This Christmas season, don't let others box you in.

XOXO

Brittney

P.S. Feel free to leave comments and tell us what YOU think!